Seeking beauty: Cathedral of Saint Paul

One of my favorite sites in the Twin Cities is the Cathedral of Saint Paul. It's so inspiring to be surrounded by so much beauty all in one place, so I like to go take in the art and architecture. But it's also a quiet, meditative place to pray and contemplate, away from the distractions and competing demands of my own space.

Sadly, when I went the other day, the praying and contemplating didn't work out as well as usual because there was a wedding rehearsal taking place. Oh well, at least I still have my prayer candle to inspire and focus me at home. And I did get to take a few pictures, though you can see much better ones on the cathedral's website, or take a virtual tour.

A tiny slice of one side of the cathedral. The front facade is way too big to photograph from close up.




The cathedral sits on the highest point in downtown St. Paul, offering amazing views of the city.




State capitol. I've heard that the dudes in charge of building the cathedral--chances are they were all dudes, right?--designed it specifically to be just a little taller than the capitol. Gotta make sure we all know God trumps government!




The central front doors, from inside.




The central dome. This is my favorite part, I think. I like to lie down on a pew and just gaze up into the dome for a while. It's light and airy and heavy at the same time. And I love that there are lots of spots of peeling paint or chipping plaster. A few flaws enhance the character.




Main altar. There are also smaller chapels at the four corners of the sanctuary, as well as several shrines in a semi-circle behind the chancel (on the other side of those bronze grilles).